Angler holding a bass by the mouth - 25 Best Bass Fishing Lake & Rivers in Maine

25 Best Bass Fishing Lakes and Rivers in Maine

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Maine, known for its stunning landscapes, picturesque coastlines, and lush forests, also boasts a wealth of fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. 

With over 6,000 lakes and ponds, and numerous rivers and streams, it’s no wonder that Maine has become a top destination for bass fishing enthusiasts. 

Its pristine waters and abundant aquatic habitats make the Pine Tree State an ideal location for experienced anglers seeking trophy-sized catches and newcomers looking to hone their skills.

In this guide, 25 Best Bass Fishing Lakes and Rivers in Maine, we will dive deep into the best bass fishing in Maine. The rivers and lakes of Maine hold vast amounts of large and smallmouth bass, along with many other fish species.

So if you are planning a fishing trip to Maine, it will be well worth your time to keep reading and learn about Maine’s exceptional natural resources. We will also share some tips, techniques, and top spots to bass fish in Maine!

25 Best Bass Fishing Lakes and Rivers in Maine

Moosehead Lake in Maine
Moosehead Lake

1. Moosehead Lake

Moosehead Lake, Maine’s largest lake, spans over 75,000 acres in the heart of the state. It is located in the Longfellow Mountains region and offers diverse fishing opportunities, including excellent smallmouth and largemouth bass fishing.

When fishing, Moosehead Lake focus on rocky points, submerged structure, and shoreline drop-offs for smallmouth bass. For largemouth bass, target weed beds and shallow coves. Topwater lures, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics are all effective for both species.

Top Fishing Spots

  • East Outlet: The East Outlet is known for its large smallmouth bass population. It is located on the eastern side of the lake, near Greenville.
  • Spencer Bay: Spencer Bay is located on the lake’s western side, near Rockwood. It is known for its large population of largemouth bass.
  • Moose River: flows into Moosehead Lake and is known for its excellent smallmouth bass fishing. It is located on the eastern side of the lake, near Rockwood.
  • Lily Bay State Park: This state park is located on the eastern side of the lake, near Greenville. It is known for its excellent bass fishing, especially for smallmouth bass.
  • Northeast Cove: is located near Greenville on the northeastern lakeside. 
  • West Cove: is located on the lake’s western side, near Rockwood. 

2. Sebago Lake

Sebago Lake, the second-largest lake in Maine, covers over 28,000 acres and is located in the southwestern part of the state. It is known for its clear waters, beautiful scenery, and outstanding bass fishing.

For best results, fish the numerous islands, rocky points, and underwater structures for smallmouth bass. Largemouth bass can often be found near weed lines and docks. Crankbaits, jerk baits, and jigs work well for both species in Sebago Lake.

Top Fishing Spots

  • Jordan Bay: This is a popular spot for bass fishing, especially in the early morning or late evening hours. The bay has plenty of structure and cover.
  • Frye Island: This island has several good spots for bass fishing, including the area around the ferry dock and the beaches on the island’s east side. You can also try fishing around the rocky points and weed beds.
  • Panther Run: This is a narrow inlet that runs along the eastern shore of the lake. It’s a good spot for bass fishing, especially in the spring and fall when the water is cooler.
  • Chute River: The River flows into Sebago Lake on the southern end, and it’s an excellent spot for bass fishing. Look for areas with current, such as the mouth of the river or around the bridge.
  • Songo River: This river connects Sebago Lake to Long Lake. Look for areas with structure, such as rocky points and weed beds.

3. Rangeley Lake

Rangeley Lake, nestled in the western mountains of Maine, is a 6,000-acre gem known for its breathtaking views and superb bass fishing. The lake is part of the Rangeley Lakes Region and attracts anglers from all over the country.

Look for smallmouth bass along rocky shorelines, submerged boulders, and underwater ledges. Largemouth bass prefer the shallower, weedy areas of the lake. Soft plastic baits, swimbaits, and tube jigs effectively catch bass in Rangeley Lake.

Top Fishing Spots

  • The eastern shore of Rangeley Lake, near the town of Rangeley. This area has a lot of structure and cover, such as weed beds, rocks, and fallen trees, which can attract bass.
  • The northern end of Rangeley Lake is around the Kennebago River’s mouth. This area has a lot of shallow water and rocky shoals, which can be productive for catching bass.
  • The southern end of Rangeley Lake, near Oquossoc. This area has a lot of coves and bays, which can provide good cover for bass.
  • The area around the islands in Rangeley Lake. These islands often have submerged structures and weed beds that can attract bass.

4. Megunticook Lake

Megunticook Lake is a glacial lake located in Knox County, Maine. It covers an area of about 1,329 acres and has a maximum depth of 149 feet.

Several small streams feed Megunticook Lake, part of the Megunticook River watershed. The lake is also home to several islands, including Frye Island, the largest island.

Bass fishing is a popular activity on Megunticook Lake due to the abundance of bass in the lake. Anglers can typically catch bass throughout the year, although the best time for bass fishing is generally in the early morning or late afternoon.

The lake offers a variety of fishing opportunities, including shore fishing, boat fishing, and fly fishing. Anglers can rent boats from local marinas or bring their own. The lake is also home to several fishing tournaments, attracting anglers from all over the country.

Top Fishing Spots

  • The Narrows: The water here is deeper and cooler, making it an ideal habitat for bass. It is located near the southern end of the lake.
  • The Islands:  are also great spots for bass fishing. 
  • The Inlets and Outlets: Look for areas where the water flows into or out of the lake, as this can create an ideal feeding ground for bass.

5. Cobbosseecontee Lake

Cobbosseecontee Lake is a large freshwater lake located in  South central Maine, USA. The lake spans over 5,500 acres and has a maximum depth of around 100 feet. It is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts, particularly those interested in bass fishing.

The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, northern pike, and brown trout. However, bass fishing is particularly popular on Cobbosseecontee Lake due to the abundance of largemouth bass.

Anglers can expect to catch bass weighing anywhere from one to six pounds, with some even reaching up to eight pounds.

Top Fishing Spots

  • The Narrows: This narrow section of the lake is located near the southern end of the lake and is known for its deep water and rocky structure, which provides excellent habitat for bass.
  • Horseshoe Cove: This cove is located on the eastern side of the lake and is known for its shallow water and weed beds, which provide ideal spawning and feeding grounds for bass.
  • The Basin: This large, deep section of the lake is located near its northern end and is known for its rocky structure and drop-offs.
  • The Islands: Several small islands are located throughout Cobbosseecontee Lake, and many provide excellent habitat for bass. Anglers can fish around the edges of the islands or target specific structures, such as submerged logs or weed beds.
  • The Flats: This large, shallow section of the lake is located near its western end and is known for its expansive weed beds, providing excellent cover and feeding grounds for bass.

6. China Lake

China Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake located in central Maine, USA. It is known for its clear waters and abundant fish populations, particularly largemouth and smallmouth bass. 

Bass fishing at China Lake is a popular activity among locals and visitors alike, with many anglers flocking to the lake in search of trophy-sized bass.

The lake covers an area of approximately 6,500 acres and has a maximum depth of around 85 feet. It is surrounded by picturesque forests and rolling hills, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Top Fishing Spots

  • The Narrows: The Narrows is a narrow channel connecting China Lake’s two main sections. This area is known for its deep water and rocky structure, which can hold some big bass. Try fishing with jigs or deep-diving crankbaits along the drop-offs and rocky points.
  • The East Shore: The east shore of China Lake is home to several coves and bays that can hold good numbers of bass. Look for areas with submerged logs or other structures, and try fishing with soft plastics or spinnerbaits.
  • The West Shore: The west shore of China Lake is another excellent spot to try for bass. Look for areas with submerged weed beds or rocky structures, and try fishing with topwater lures or shallow-running crankbaits.

7. Thompson Lake

Thompson Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake in Oxford, Maine. The lake is approximately 4 miles long and 2 miles wide, with a surface area of about 4,426 acres. 

The lake is known for its crystal-clear water, sandy beaches, and abundant fish population, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts.

Bass fishing on Thompson Lake is a popular activity among anglers, as the lake is home to a variety of bass species, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and white bass. 

The lake’s clear water and rocky shores provide ideal conditions for bass fishing, and many anglers report catching large bass specimens.

Top Fishing Spots

  • The Narrows: The Narrows is a narrow channel connecting the lake’s northern and southern sections. This area is known for its deep water and rocky structure, 
  • The East Shore: The eastern shore of Thompson Lake is a popular spot for fishing, particularly for smallmouth bass. The shoreline is rocky and provides plenty of cover for fish.
  • The West Shore: The western shore of Thompson Lake is another great spot for fishing, particularly for largemouth bass. The shoreline is more wooded than the eastern shore, providing plenty of cover for fish.
  • The South End: The southern end of Thompson Lake is a shallow area with plenty of weed beds, making it a great spot for catching panfish, such as bluegill and sunfish.

8. Mousam Lake

Mousam Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake in York County, Maine, in the United States. It covers an area of approximately 1,200 acres and has a maximum depth of around 42 feet. 

The lake is known for its clear waters, sandy beaches, and excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for largemouth and smallmouth bass.

The lake’s shallow waters, rocky outcroppings, and submerged logs and stumps provide ideal habitat for bass, making it an excellent spot to catch these fish. 

Top Fishing Spots

  • The lake’s northern end is near the inlet of the Mousam River. This area is known for its shallow waters and rocky outcroppings, which provide ideal habitat for bass.
  • The lake’s southern end, near the dam. This area has deeper waters and submerged logs and stumps, which attract bass looking for food and shelter.
  • The lake’s western shoreline, particularly near the sandy beaches. These areas have shallow waters and weed beds, prime feeding grounds for bass.
  • The eastern shoreline of the lake, near the islands and coves. These areas have rocky outcroppings and submerged logs, providing excellent bass cover.

9. Kezar Lake

Kezar Lake is a beautiful lake located in western Maine, USA. It is known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant fish population, including bass. Bass fishing on Kezar Lake is popular among locals and visitors.

The lake is home to largemouth and smallmouth bass, with largemouth being the most commonly caught species.

Top Fishing Spots

  • The Narrows:  is located between the Upper and Lower basins of the lake and is known for its rocky shoreline and drop-offs. Bass tend to congregate in this area, especially during the summer months.
  • The Islands: Several islands on Kezar Lake offer great bass fishing opportunities. Anglers can fish around the edges of the islands or target submerged structures like rocks and fallen trees.
  • Cold Brook: This is a popular spot for both smallmouth and largemouth bass fishing. The mouth of the brook is a particularly productive area, especially during the spring and fall.
  • The Inlet: is located on the northeastern side of the lake and is a great spot to target largemouth bass. This area’s shallow water and weed beds provide ideal habitat for bass.
  • The Southern End: is another excellent area to fish for bass. The water here is generally deeper than other parts of the lake, and there are plenty of submerged structures like rocks and fallen trees that bass like to hide around.

10. Eagle Lake

Eagle Lake is a beautiful lake in the northern part of Maine. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those who enjoy fishing. The lake covers an area of approximately 6,000 acres and has a maximum depth of around 136 feet.

Bass fishing on Eagle Lake is a popular activity, as the lake is home to a variety of fish species, including smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and white perch. 

The lake’s clear, deep waters provide an ideal habitat for these fish, making it a prime location for anglers to catch a trophy-sized bass.

Top Fishing Spots

  • The Narrows: is located in the middle of the lake. The Narrows is a natural channel that connects the east and west sides of the lake, and it is known for having deep water and plenty of structure, such as rocky points and drop-offs, that bass like to hang around.
  • The South End: is known for having shallow water and plenty of vegetation, providing cover for bass. Anglers often find bass around weed beds and lily pads in this area.
  • The North End: is known for having rocky shorelines and drop-offs that bass like to inhabit. Anglers can often find bass around submerged rocks and ledges in this area.
  • The Islands: Eagle Lake has several islands scattered throughout it. The islands often have shallow water and plenty of structure, such as fallen trees and boulders, that bass like to hang around.

11. Great Pond

The Great Pond is a large, freshwater body of water located in the Belgrade Lakes region of Maine. It is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts, particularly those interested in catching bass.

Bass fishing on the Great Pond can be a thrilling experience, as the pond is home to a variety of different bass species, including largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass. 

In addition to bass, the Great Pond is also home to other fish species, such as trout, salmon, and pickerel. The pond’s clear waters and scenic surroundings make it popular for recreational activities like boating, swimming, and camping.

Top Fishing Spots

  • The North End: The North End of the Great Pond is known for having some of the best bass fishing in the area. This area is perfect for catching largemouth bass, which can be found in the shallow waters near the shoreline.
  • The South End: Anglers can find largemouth and smallmouth bass in this area, particularly in the deeper waters near the drop-offs and weed beds.
  • The Narrows: The Narrows is a narrow channel that connects the Great Pond to Long Pond. This area is known for having some of the largest bass in the pond and a variety of other fish species like pickerel and pike.
  • The West Shore: The West Shore of the Great Pond is a great spot for anglers who prefer to fish from the shore. This area has plenty of rocky outcroppings and weed beds where bass like to hide.
  • The East Shore: The East Shore of the Great Pond is another great spot for shore fishing. This area has plenty of rocky points and drop-offs where bass like to congregate.

12. Messalonskee Lake

Messalonskee Lake is a beautiful lake located in central Maine near the town of Oakland. It is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts looking to catch various fish species, including bass.

Bass fishing on Messalonskee Lake is a popular activity, particularly during the warmer months of the year. 

The lake is home to both largemouth and smallmouth bass, which can be found in the shallower areas near the shoreline and around underwater structures such as weed beds and fallen trees.

Top Fishing Spots

  • Southern end of the lake: is known for its large weed beds, which provide excellent cover for bass..
  • Eastern shore: The eastern shore of Messalonskee Lake is home to several rocky points and underwater structures that attract bass. Try fishing around these areas with crankbaits or jigs.
  • Northern end of the lake: The northern end is shallower and has a lot of submerged vegetation, which provides great habitat for bass. 
  • Western shore: is home to several coves and bays that provide excellent habitat for bass. Look for areas with a lot of underwater structure and fish around these areas using crankbaits or jigs.

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13. West Grand Lake

West Grand Lake is a beautiful lake located in Washington County, Maine. It is known for its clear waters and excellent bass fishing opportunities. 

The lake covers an area of approximately 14,000 acres and has a maximum depth of 128 feet. The lake’s shoreline is heavily wooded, with rocky outcrops and sandy beaches providing plenty of opportunities for fishing and water sports.

Anglers can expect to catch bass throughout the year, although the best time to fish for bass is typically during the summer months when the water temperatures are warmer. The lake is also home to other fish species, including brook trout, landlocked salmon, and lake trout.

Top Fishing Spots

  • North End: is known for its rocky outcroppings and deep water, making it an ideal spot for smallmouth bass. 
  • South End: is shallower and has more vegetation, making it a great spot for largemouth bass. Anglers can use topwater lures and spinnerbaits to target bass in this area.
  • The Narrows: This lake area connects the north and south ends and is known for its strong current and rocky structure. 
  • West Shore: has a mix of rock and vegetation, making it an excellent spot for both smallmouth and largemouth bass.

14. Schoodic Lake

Schoodic Lake is located in the eastern part of Maine, specifically in the county of Piscataquis. It is situated near the town of Brownville, which is about 50 miles north of the city of Bangor.

It is known for its excellent bass fishing, with both smallmouth and largemouth bass present in the lake. The lake is relatively shallow, with an average depth of around 30 feet, and is surrounded by scenic forests and mountains.

The lake is home to a healthy bass population, and anglers can expect to catch fish of various sizes. Some of the best lake bass fishing areas include rocky points, weed beds, and drop-offs near the shoreline.

Top Fishing Spots

  • The Narrows: is known for its rocky shoreline and drop-offs, providing excellent bass habitat. Try casting around this area’s rocky points and weed beds to target smallmouth and largemouth bass.
  • The South End: The southern end of Schoodic Lake is another great spot for bass fishing. Look for areas with submerged logs and weed beds, which provide cover for bass. You can also try fishing around the islands in this area, which can be productive.
  • The North End: is deeper than other areas, with an average depth of around 50 feet. Look for drop-offs and rocky points near the shoreline to target bass in this area.
  • The Inlet: Look for areas with submerged vegetation and rocky structure, which provide good cover for bass.

15. Pushaw Lake 

Pushaw Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake located in Penobscot County, Maine. It covers an area of approximately 5,000 acres and has a maximum depth of 42 feet. The lake is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including forests, hills, and wildlife.

Pushaw Lake is known for its excellent bass fishing opportunities.

Top Fishing Spots

  • The northern end of the lake: is known for its shallow waters and abundant weed beds, making it an ideal spot for largemouth bass. 
  • The southern end of the lake: has deeper waters and rocky structures, which smallmouth bass prefer. 
  • The eastern shore: has a mix of shallow and deep waters, with plenty of submerged structures and weed beds.
  • The western shore: has a mix of rocky structures and weed beds, making it a great spot for largemouth and smallmouth bass.

16. Damariscotta Lake

Damariscotta Lake is a large freshwater lake located in Lincoln County, Maine. The lake covers an area of approximately 4,625 acres and has a maximum depth of 114 feet. It is situated in a picturesque setting surrounded by rolling hills, forests, and rocky outcroppings.

The lake is fed by several small streams and tributaries and is drained by the Damariscotta River, which flows into the Atlantic Ocean. The water in Damariscotta Lake is crystal clear and is known for its excellent water quality. 

The lake has several fish species, including bass, trout, salmon, and pickerel, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts.

Top Fishing Spots

  • The Narrows: This is a narrow channel that connects the upper and lower sections of the lake. The channel is known to hold large numbers of bass, especially during the spring spawning season.
  • The East Shore: is known for its rocky outcroppings and submerged structure, which provide excellent cover for bass and other fish species.
  • The West Shore: The west shore of the lake is home to several weed beds and drop-offs, which are ideal spots for bass and other fish to feed.
  • The Mouth: The mouth of the river where it flows into the lake is a prime spot for catching salmon and other fish species.
  • The Deep Holes: Damariscotta Lake has several deep holes that are known to hold large numbers of fish, including bass, trout, and pickerel. These holes can be found throughout the lake and are usually marked on fishing maps.

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17. Webb Lake

Webb Lake is a beautiful lake in the western part of Maine, in Weld. It is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts, particularly those who enjoy bass fishing. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, trout, and pickerel.

Bass fishing at Webb Lake is popular, especially during warmer months. Anglers can fish from the shore or from a boat, and plenty of areas around the lake are ideal for casting a line. 

The lake has several coves, bays, and channels that provide excellent habitat for bass, and plenty of underwater structures, such as rocks and fallen trees, provide shelter for the fish.

Top Fishing Spots

  • The northern end of the lake, near the inlet. This area is known for its shallow water and abundant weed beds, which provide excellent habitat for bass.
  • The southern end of the lake, near the dam. This area is deeper and has more structure, such as submerged logs and rocks, which can attract larger bass.
  • The western shore of the lake, near the islands. This area has a mix of shallow and deep water, and the islands provide additional structure for bass to hide and feed.
  • The eastern shore of the lake, near the public beach. This area has a rocky bottom and drop-offs that can be attractive to bass, especially during the warmer months.

18. North Pond

North Pond is a beautiful lake in central Maine near Smithfield. It covers an area of approximately 2,500 acres and has a maximum depth of around 70 feet. The lake is surrounded by dense forests, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Bass fishing is a popular activity on North Pond, as the lake is home to several species of bass, including largemouth and smallmouth bass.

Top Fishing Spots

  • Northern end: is known for its rocky shoreline and deep water, making it a great spot for catching larger bass. 
  • Southern end: is shallower than the northern end, with more vegetation and weed beds. This can be an excellent spot for targeting smaller bass with topwater lures or soft plastics.
  • The area around the island: North Pond has a large island near its center, and the area around the island can be a productive spot for bass fishing.
  • The coves and bays: North Pond has several coves and bays that can be great spots for bass fishing, especially during the spring and fall when the water is cooler. Anglers can try casting with finesse lures or drop-shot rigs in these areas.

19. Togus Pond

Togus Pond is a beautiful body of water located in Augusta, Maine. It covers an area of approximately 408 acres and has a maximum depth of 37 feet. The pond is popular for recreational activities such as boating, swimming, and fishing.

Bass fishing in Togus Pond is a favorite pastime for many anglers. You will find many fish species here, including largemouth and smallmouth bass.

Top Fishing Spots

  • Northern end: is known for its shallow waters and abundant weed beds, which provide excellent cover for bass. 
  • Southern end: is deeper and has more structure, including drop-offs and underwater humps.
  • Coves and bays: Togus Pond has several coves and bays that provide great cover for bass. 
  • The dam: The dam at the southern end of Togus Pond is a popular spot for anglers to fish for bass. The area around the dam is deep and has a lot of structure, making it an ideal spot for bass to congregate.

20. Long Lake

Long Lake is in the picturesque region of Maine’s western mountains, known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. 

The lake is fed by several streams and rivers, including the Dead River and Rangeley Lake, and lush forests and rolling hills surround its clear waters.

The lake’s size and depth make it an ideal habitat for many fish species, including smallmouth and largemouth bass, brook trout, landlocked salmon, and lake trout. 

Long Lake is a relatively shallow lake, with an average depth of around 20 feet and a maximum depth of 59 feet. It has a rocky and sandy bottom, with many submerged structures that provide ideal hiding places for bass and other fish.

Top Fishing Spots

  • The Inlet: the water here is cooler and oxygen-rich, making it an ideal habitat for bass. 
  • The Outlet: The water here is shallow and weedy, providing excellent cover for bass. 
  • The Narrows: is a section of the lake that connects the upper and lower portions. This area is known for its deep waters and rocky bottom.
  • The Bays: Long Lake has several bays, including the East Bay, West Bay, and South Bay, which provide excellent bass fishing opportunities. The bays are shallow and weedy, and the water is often warmer than the main lake.
  • The Drop-offs: Long Lake has several drop-offs. These areas are prime habitat for bass, as they provide cover and access to deeper waters.

21. Penobscot River

The Penobscot River is a major river in Maine, flowing for over 350 miles from its source at the confluence of the East Branch and West Branch in northern Maine to its mouth at Penobscot Bay. 

The river is known for its scenic beauty and abundant wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, and moose.

Bass fishing on the Penobscot River is popular for anglers of all experience levels. The river is home to smallmouth and largemouth bass, with smallmouths being the more common.

Top Fishing Spots

  • Bangor Area: is a popular spot for bass fishing, especially around the islands and in the deeper channels. Some of the best fishing can be found in the stretch of river between the Veazie Dam and the Bangor Dam.
  • Old Town Area: is another excellent spot for bass fishing, with plenty of shallow water areas and weed beds that attract smallmouth and largemouth bass. The area around the Milford Dam is particularly productive.
  • Eddington Area: is known for its fast-moving current and deep pools, which make it an ideal spot for catching trophy-sized smallmouth bass. 
  • Orono Area: has plenty of rocky shoals and deep pools that attract smallmouth and largemouth bass. The area around the University of Maine campus is particularly productive.

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22. Kennebec River

The Kennebec River is a beautiful and historic river that flows through Maine in the northeastern United States. It is known for its scenic beauty, rich history, and excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for bass.

Top Fishing Spots

  • The stretch of river between Waterville and Skowhegan. This section of the river is relatively calm and has plenty of good spots for casting a line.
  • The area around the Wyman Dam in Moscow. This section of the river is known for its deep pools and fast-moving currents, which make it an ideal habitat for bass.
  • The stretch of river between Augusta and Gardiner. This river area is relatively wide and has plenty of good spots for casting a line.
  • The area around the mouth of the Kennebec River, where it meets the Atlantic Ocean. Anglers can fish from the shore or from a boat and catch various bass species, including striped bass.

23. Androscoggin River

The Androscoggin River is approximately 178 miles long, starting in Errol, New Hampshire and flowing through the White Mountains before crossing into Maine and eventually emptying into the Atlantic Ocean at Merrymeeting Bay. 

The river is a major tributary of the Kennebec River and is the third-largest river in Maine by volume.

The river is known for its clear waters, rocky bottom, and abundant fish population, making it an ideal spot for bass to thrive.

Top Fishing Spots

  • Brunswick-Topsham Dam: This area is known for its large and smallmouth bass and is a popular spot for fly fishing. 
  • Pejepscot Dam: Located in Brunswick, this spot is known for its large and smallmouth bass and trout. 
  • Gulf Island Dam: Located in Lewiston, this spot is known for its large and smallmouth bass, as well as its catfish and walleye. The dam creates a deep pool that is ideal for fishing.
  • Bethel: This area is known for its smallmouth bass and is a popular spot for fly fishing. The river here is relatively shallow. 
  • Errol: This area is known for its large and smallmouth bass, as well as its trout. The river here is relatively shallow, making it an excellent spot for wading and fly fishing.

24. Saco River

The Saco River is a picturesque waterway that winds through the beautiful landscape of western Maine. It is a relatively shallow river with an average depth of around 3-4 feet, although some areas have deeper pools and runs. 

The river is characterized by its clear, cool water, which is ideal for a variety of fish species, including bass.

Top Fishing Spots

  • Brownfield Bridge: This is a popular spot among local anglers, as it offers easy access to the river and is known for producing good numbers of smallmouth bass. The area around the bridge features a rocky and sandy bottom, and the current can be strong.
  • Hiram Dam: is known for producing large numbers of smallmouth bass. The water here is relatively shallow and has a rocky and sandy bottom, and the current is moderate. 
  • Fryeburg: The water here is relatively deep. There are numerous backwaters and side channels that provide ideal habitat for bass.
  • Swan’s Falls: Located near Fryeburg, Swan’s Falls is a popular spot for fly and spin fishing for smallmouth bass. The water here is relatively shallow, and the current can be intense. 

25. Saint Croix River

The Saint Croix River is a 71-mile-long river that flows along the border between Maine and New Brunswick, Canada. 

It begins at the confluence of the Chiputneticook Lakes in eastern Maine and flows northeast to its mouth at Passamaquoddy Bay, which is part of the Bay of Fundy. 

The river is part of the larger Saint Croix International Historic Site, which includes several historic sites and recreational areas along the river.

Here you will find a wide variety of bass, including small and large-mouth species.

Top Fishing Spots

  • Vanceboro Dam: Located at the head of tide on the Saint Croix River, the Vanceboro Dam is a popular spot for anglers looking to catch smallmouth bass. The area below the dam is particularly productive, especially during summer.
  • Baskahegan Stream: This tributary of the Saint Croix River is known for its excellent smallmouth bass fishing. The area around the mouth of the stream is particularly productive, especially in the early morning and late afternoon.
  • Spednic Lake: This large lake on the Maine/New Brunswick border is a popular destination for anglers looking to catch both smallmouth and largemouth bass. The lake is best fished by boat, with many productive spots near numerous islands and rocky shorelines.
  • Lower Saint Croix River: The lower section of the Saint Croix River, below Vanceboro, is known for its excellent largemouth bass fishing. The area around the mouth of the river, where it meets Passamaquoddy Bay, is particularly productive.
  • Grand Falls Flowage: This large impoundment on the Saint Croix River is known for its excellent smallmouth bass fishing. The area around the dam is particularly productive, especially during the summer months.

Tips For Successful Bass Fishing in Maine

Close up of a bass caught with an artificial lure

Best times of the year to fish

The best time of year for bass fishing in Maine depends on the species and location. Generally, late spring to early summer (late May to early June) is a prime time for bass fishing as the water temperatures rise. 

The summer months are particularly productive for smallmouth bass in northern Maine, including on the Androscoggin River and in Grand Lake Stream.

Fishing gear and equipment

A good place to start with your fishing gear is with a versatile rod and reel setup that can handle a variety of lures and conditions. A medium to medium-heavy rod with a fast action is a great all-around choice for bass fishing in Maine. 

Artificial lures such as spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and soft plastics are commonly used, though live bait can also be effective. Remember, local regulations may limit the use of certain types of bait, so it’s always a good idea to check beforehand.

Local fishing regulations and license requirements

The state of Maine requires all anglers to have a valid fishing license, which can be purchased online or at various locations throughout the state. 

Always check the current regulations for the specific body of water you plan to fish, as rules can vary regarding bag limits, size restrictions, and the use of live vs. artificial bait.

Fishing licenses in Maine can be obtained in several ways:

  • In-person: Fishing licenses can be purchased in person at many sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and other retail locations throughout the state.
  • You can also obtain a fishing license by mail by downloading and filling out a license application from the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife website and mailing it in with payment.

Catch and Release Best Practices

Practicing catch-and-release helps to maintain healthy fish populations and ensures that Maine’s lakes and rivers remain great places for bass fishing. Always handle fish carefully to minimize stress and injury when practicing catch and release.

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Other Fish Species to Catch in Maine

Maine’s lakes and rivers offer many fishing opportunities beyond just bass. Lake trout, landlocked salmon, and brook trout are popular targets, particularly in the deeper waters of Maine’s larger lakes, such as Moosehead Lake and West Grand Lake. 

Brown trout, rainbow trout, and white perch are common in many of Maine’s waters, including popular spots like China Lake and Megunticook Lake in the coastal city of Camden.

Conclusion – Best Bass Fishing in Maine

Maine is undoubtedly an ultimate resource for bass fishing, offering numerous lakes and rivers perfect for a full day of angling. Its pristine waters, rich with game fish and flanked by breathtaking landscapes, make it a top fishing destination in the United States. 

Whether a seasoned angler or a beginner, you will find Maine’s lakes and rivers a great place for your next bass fishing trip.

I hope you enjoyed this article, and if you have any questions or comments, please leave them below. Until next time Happy Bass Fishing!

Cory is a content writer-editor and founder of Tackle Box Talk. Favorite Quote: "Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime."

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